Create a meaningful community and connections

Local disability service providers in the Tamworth region have joined forces to invite the community to Coledale Community Fun Day on Tuesday, writes Northcott*New England area manager Matt Old.

To be held at the Coledale Community Centre between noon to 7pm, the free event aims to bridge the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians, people with and without disabilities, government and non-government agencies and looks to build a stronger community by creating meaningful connections with the valued members who belong to it.

The Coledale Community Fun Day is about service providers working together to engage better with the Aboriginal community and families with a disability.

It’s important to work together in this new world. The sector is working towards self-managed models and a possible National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), so that families can have more choice and opportunity to meet the needs of their children and other family members. By doing a Fun Day like this we are hoping to break down some of the stigma and confusion involved for families who are trying to engage with service providers.

The event will also see Tamworth Regional Council launch the NOW affordable housing initiative.

Funded with a $10.68 million Australian government grant through the Building Better Regional Cities Program, NOW involves a range of improvements to the streetscape, roads and built environment of Coledale, construction of a new multi-million dollar regional youth centre and the creation of 58 new blocks for affordable housing.

Coledale Community Fun Day will include a range of activities and entertainment including Aboriginal performances, traditional indigenous and kids games, Elders games, a jumping castle, a child- care corner, art space, amusements, information stalls, barbecue and much more.

For more information contact Elizabeth Ervine on 0400 952 166.

* Northcott is a not-for-profit organisation which provides support to more than 11,400

children and adults living with a disability and their families and carers across NSW and the ACT.